Leucopenia in the healthy Saudi Arabian population

The Saudi Arabian population has been reported to have a lower total leucocyte count compared with European and American populations. However, it appears to be confined to certain tribes or families only. Thirty-six adults from suspected tribes [AI-Harthi, AI-Zaharani, AI-Shehri, AI-Fifi, Al- Talhi and AI-Qatani] were studied for haematological parameters and compared with a comparable group from other tribes or families. The total leucocyte count in the suspected group was significantly lower compared with the control group mainly because of its lower neutrophil component. As the bone marrow examination performed in four members of the suspected group revealed no abnormality, neutropenia in these tribes or families is suggestive of benign familial neutropenia